Ball State University's chapter of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) has received the Gold Star Award at the 2011 NSCS Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Rachel Thornton, NSCS national staff representative who works with Ball State's officers, said the award comes as no surprise. "The members of Ball State's chapter have gone above and beyond by creating innovative programs and expanding and improving existing programs. They have truly embraced the ideals of NSCS."

The chapter's officers accepted the award on behalf of all members and their adviser. The chapter also received a $250 chapter scholarship and letter to President Jo Ann M. Gora, commemorating its Gold Star Status.

To attain Gold Star status, chapters are required to hold an induction ceremony for new members, create a student mentoring program, hold campuswide events to support NSCS's integrity initiative, create an on-campus membership recruitment campaign and engage a campus office in a chapter event.

NSCS, an honors organization for high-achieving first- and second- year students, has more than 300 student-run chapters at universities across the country. Students are eligible based on grade point average and class standing, can become members by invitation only and are offered exclusive access to scholarships, career resources and leadership and networking opportunities.